X Report 10 Feb 2025
SpaceX prepares for Starship Flight 8 with successful booster static fire; Starlink continues its expansion.
STARLINK-6246 (57078)
COSPAR: 2023-088AG | Alt Name: Starlink 6246
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
57078
International Designator
2023-088AG
Decay Date
2/2/2026
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-6246
Alternative Name
Starlink 6246
Type
Payload
Status
Decayed
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The STARLINK-6246 satellite, also known as Starlink 6246, is part of the Starlink constellation and was launched on June 22, 2023, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has dimensions of 0.2 meters in length, a diameter of 2.8 meters, and a span of 9 meters. The satellite features a Ku/Ka-band payload and an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. Its dry mass is 290 kilograms, with a launch mass of 305 kilograms. STARLINK-6246 uses solar arrays and batteries for power generation and krypton ion thrusters for propulsion. The satellite's structure is described as box-shaped with panels. It is owned by SpaceX (SPXS) and was manufactured by the same company.
Starlink is a satellite constellation developed by SpaceX with the aim of providing global broadband internet coverage. Thousands of small satellites are deployed in low Earth orbit (LEO), enabling high-speed internet access even in remote areas. However, the rapid increase in satellites raises concerns about space debris and the potential for collisions, which can lead to further debris creation and endanger other spacecraft. Additionally, the sheer number of Starlink satellites can affect astronomical observations by increasing light pollution. Proper deorbiting plans and international coordination are essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure long-term sustainability in space.
Starlink is a satellite constellation developed by SpaceX with the aim of providing global broadband internet coverage. Thousands of small satellites are deployed in low Earth orbit (LEO), enabling high-speed internet access even in remote areas. However, the rapid increase in satellites raises concerns about space debris and the potential for collisions, which can lead to further debris creation and endanger other spacecraft. Additionally, the sheer number of Starlink satellites can affect astronomical observations by increasing light pollution. Proper deorbiting plans and international coordination are essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure long-term sustainability in space.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.2
Diameter
2.8
Span
9
Dry Mass
290
Launch Mass
305
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 5-7-31
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Krypton ion thrusters
Equipment
Ku/Ka-band payload, optical inter-satellite link
Power System
Solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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